When summer hits in Florida, there’s no room for guesswork with your air conditioning. A sudden breakdown during a heatwave is more than uncomfortable, it can lead to costly repairs, health concerns, and emergency calls that strain your budget and your patience.
Luckily, most AC mishaps can be prevented with a simple HVAC tune-up. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to stay cool or a real estate agent helping clients prep their property, now’s the time to act.
Here’s what you should know about HVAC inspections, why they matter, and what professionals look for before the summer sizzle sets in.
Why Summer is Prime Time for HVAC Stress
Florida’s intense summer heat isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s relentless. HVAC systems work overtime to maintain indoor comfort, particularly in older homes or homes that haven’t had a recent tune-up. This high demand can push worn components to their breaking point.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling make up about 48% of energy use in the average home meaning a well-running AC isn’t just convenient, it’s cost-saving too.
What Happens in a HVAC Tune-Up?
A proper tune-up goes beyond just changing filters. Here’s a breakdown of what a professional HVAC tech or inspector will assess:
Check and Clean the Condenser Coils
Outdoor condenser coils tend to collect dirt, grass clippings, leaves, and dust. Dirty coils reduce system efficiency and force your AC to work harder meaning higher energy bills and shorter system lifespan.
Want to DIY? Gently spray the coils with a hose and clear out any debris around the unit, but always leave full cleanings to the pros.
Test Refrigerant Levels and Look for Leaks
Low refrigerant doesn’t just make your system inefficient, it can freeze up your evaporator coils and lead to serious damage. If levels are off, it might signal a leak.
EPA regulations also require proper refrigerant handling, especially with older systems using phased-out R-22.
Inspect and Test Thermostat Functionality
A poorly calibrated or outdated thermostat could be sabotaging your cooling efforts. Programmable or smart thermostats not only boost comfort but can save up to 10% annually on heating and cooling.
Evaluate Electrical Components and Connections
From capacitors to relays, the electrical guts of your AC system need to be tight, clean, and corrosion-free. Small issues here often snowball into full outages.
Check Airflow and Ductwork
Poor airflow = poor performance. Clogged filters, crushed ductwork, or leaky returns waste energy and unevenly cool your home. A tune-up should include:
- Filter replacements
- Static pressure testing
- Blower motor checks
Flush the Drain Line
Florida’s humidity means your AC works hard to remove moisture from the air. A clogged condensate line can back up and cause water damage or even mold. Technicians will usually flush the line with a vacuum or special solution.
How Often Should You Get an HVAC Tune-Up?
Experts recommend getting your system serviced twice per year: once in spring (for cooling), and once in fall (for heating). If you’ve missed a few check-ups, now’s the time to catch up before the summer stretch.
Pro Tip: Consider a service agreement with a trusted HVAC contractor. These annual plans often cost less than a single emergency visit and help extend your system’s life.
Warning Signs Your AC May Already Be Struggling
Even if your system is still running, these red flags may signal underlying issues:
- Uneven temperatures throughout your home
- Strange noises (buzzing, rattling, hissing)
- Frequent cycling on and off
- Weak airflow from vents
- Unexpected spike in energy bills
Don’t wait until your AC quits completely, these signs are your system asking for help.
Home Inspections and HVAC Checks
At Waypoint Property Inspection, our inspectors perform a visual inspection of HVAC systems as part of the full home assessment. While we don’t service or repair units, we do check for:
- Rust or corrosion on components
- Unusual noises or vibration
- Age and condition of the unit
- Proper insulation on refrigerant lines
- Safety concerns or installation red flags
We’ll document what we see and recommend further evaluation if needed. For buyers and sellers, this early insight can be a game-changer.
How This Impacts Property Sales
If you’re preparing to list a home, a working, efficient HVAC system is a major selling point. Buyers notice clean vents, responsive thermostats, and cool, quiet air. But they also notice weak airflow, lingering odors, and units that sound like they’re about to launch into orbit.
Pre-listing HVAC tune-ups can help:
- Speed up the selling process
- Reduce buyer objections
- Avoid price negotiations over system condition
Final Thoughts
With temperatures already soaring into the 90s, now’s the time to make sure your HVAC system is ready to keep up. A seasonal HVAC check is a simple step that can save your client or your household from unexpected costs and stress. Whether you’re preparing to list, just moved in, or want to keep things running smoothly, we’re here to help you stay ahead. Reach out to the Waypoint team, we’re always happy to point you in the right direction.
